From 4 March 2026 to 31 March 2026 we consulted on the draft Civil Penalty Policy and Approach to Enforcement under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 (and other housing legislation).
Reforms to the private rented sector in England introduced new rights and responsibilities for landlords, letting agents and tenants. These changes give local authorities stronger powers to act against landlords who do not follow the rules and help us better protect private tenants.
To ensure these new powers are used appropriately, we developed a Renters’ Rights Act Policy. This policy explains how the new legislation will affect landlords and tenants from 1 May 2026, when it comes into force.
The consultation results (PDF) were considered ahead of the policy being finalised.